Morocco has become the 60th country to ratify the UN High Seas Treaty, enabling it to take effect from early 2026, aimed at protecting marine life on international waters.
Milestone for Ocean Conservation
The UN High Seas Treaty, also known as the Treaty on the High Seas, was ratified by Morocco on Friday, marking a significant milestone in international efforts to protect the world’s oceans. This ratification makes Morocco the 60th country to formally accept the agreement, thereby fulfilling the requirement for the treaty to come into force.
The treaty is set to take effect from the beginning of 2026. It is the first international treaty to focus on the conservation of marine life on the high seas, which cover about two-thirds of the world’s oceans and are not under the jurisdiction of any single country.
Protecting the High Seas from Human Impact
The high seas are facing numerous threats, including overfishing, pollution, climate change, and other human activities. The treaty aims to establish protected areas on the high seas, which could limit activities such as fishing and deep-sea mining. This is crucial for preserving marine biodiversity and mitigating the impacts of climate change on ocean ecosystems.
One of the significant challenges for ocean conservation is the lack of effective governance and enforcement mechanisms on the high seas. The treaty offers hope for improved management and protection of these areas, but its success will depend on the actions of countries that have ratified it.
Implementation and Challenges Ahead
The treaty was ratified by the European Union earlier this year, but countries like Poland, despite signing the agreement in 2023, have not yet completed the formal ratification process. Major countries, including the United States, China, Russia, and Japan, have not ratified the treaty, although some have expressed intentions to align with its goals.
The effectiveness of the treaty in achieving its objectives, such as protecting 30% of the world’s lands and oceans by 2030, remains to be seen. The implementation of the treaty’s provisions will rely heavily on the actions of its signatory countries and their commitment to enforcing its regulations.
